Audi says that the car will ride and handle well on all types of surface, with stability control and a system called Offroad Detection to help it out on rough terrain.

EnginesThree engines will be available from launch: one petrol and two diesels.

The 211bhp 2.0-litre petrol engine has 258lb ft of pulling power, propelling the car from 0-62mph in 6.9 seconds, and has a top speed of 143mph. It's linked to a six-speed manual gearbox as standard and averages 29.0mpg.

The 170bhp 2.0-litre diesel also has 258lb ft of pulling power, hits 62mph in 8.9 seconds and has a top speed of 132mph. It's linked to Audi's seven-speed S tronic semi-automatic gearbox and averages 36.8mpg.

The 240bhp 3.0 V6 diesel has 369lb ft of pull, and with the S tronic semi-automatic gearbox it reaches 62mph in 6.4 seconds. It has a top speed of 146mph and averages 33.1mpg.

Other detailsLuggage capacity is 490 litres with the seats up and 1430 litres with them folded down. There is also a load hatch, through which skis can be stored.

Safety kit includes front, front side and head airbags. Rear side airbags are available as an option. The head restraints also move in the event of an accident to reduce whiplash injuries.

Other standard equipment includes alloy wheels, foglights, a headlight washer system, roof rails, climate control and a push-button handbrake.